What is Hiccups? (Introduction)

Hiccups are sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, the muscle under the lungs, followed by a quick closing of the vocal cords. That closing produces the typical "hic" sound.

What happens in the body

The diaphragm and the muscles between the ribs spasm, a breath is cut short, and the voice box snaps shut. It is a reflex that involves the phrenic and vagus nerves and a control centre in the brainstem.

How common and how long

• Nearly everyone has hiccups from time to time.
• Most episodes last a few minutes and stop on their own.
• Persistent hiccups last more than 48 hours.
• Intractable hiccups last more than a month and always need medical review.

Why they matter

Short hiccups are harmless. Long-lasting ones can disturb sleep, eating and mood, and may point to an underlying problem such as reflux, a nerve irritation, medicine side effect or a condition in the chest, abdomen or brain.

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda describes hiccups as hikka, linked mainly to vata with kapha. This is an interpretive framework and does not replace a medical check for long-lasting hiccups.

Key point

Occasional hiccups need nothing more than patience. See a doctor if they last beyond two days, or come with chest pain, vomiting, weakness or trouble breathing.

Before your appointment

Note when the hiccups began, how long they last, what seems to trigger or ease them, and whether they disturb sleep or eating. List all medicines, alcohol use, recent surgery and any reflux, chest pain, weakness or breathing trouble. Bring past reports. Ask about tests, treatment options and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.